Biomedical Sciences - College of Science and Health

Anita R. Bralock, RN, PhD
Assistant Professor, Biomedical Sciences

Keck Bldg, Room 226
1731 E. 120th Street
Los Angeles, CA 90059

Phone: (323) 563-9306
anbralock@cdrewu.edu

Research Interests

The factors which promote condom use, especially among Hispanic and African American women, are of special interest to me. The purpose of my research is to investigate and identify various factors influencing condom use in these populations. Many sexually active young women risk contracting sexually transmitted infections (STIs) including HIV and AIDS. Half of all new AIDS cases are occurring in those 25 years of age and younger, and approximately two out of three people who acquire STIs in the United States are younger than age 25 (Center for Disease Control [CDC], 2004).

Inner-city minorities, in particular, are at a greater risk of acquiring HIV due to higher concentrations of HIV infection in inner-city areas. This is due mainly to higher STI rates among ethnic minority young adults and the disproportionate impact of AIDS on racial and ethnic minorities in the United States (CDC, 2004). Decreasing risk factors for contracting HIV and other STIs requires that sexually active young women initiate preventive strategies that will effectively inhibit the transmission of infection.

Unfortunately, many women encounter interpersonal and gender-related power issues which contribute to inconsistent condom usage. Further research is needed to help identify gender-related issues among young women of ethnically diverse backgrounds. Therefore, the goal of my research is to examine variables influencing risky sexual behaviors.

RECENT PUBLICATIONS

Bralock, A. & Koniak-Griffin, D. (2007) Relationships, power and other influences on self protective sexual behaviors of African American female adolescents. Health Care for Women International, 28:247–267.

Bralock, A. & Koniak-Griffin, D. (2008) What do sexually active adolescent females say about relationship issues? Journal of Pediatric Nursing (pending).

Last updated 11/27/07